If you're looking to connect your computer or gaming console to a monitor or TV, you have two popular options: DisplayPort and HDMI. These two video interfaces have been around for a while and have gone through several upgrades. The latest versions are DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1. But which one is better? In this article, we'll compare the two and help you decide which one to choose.
What is DisplayPort 1.4?
DisplayPort is a digital display interface developed by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). It was first introduced in 2006 and has since gone through several upgrades. The latest version, DisplayPort 1.4, was released in 2016. It supports a maximum resolution of 8K at 60Hz and HDR (High Dynamic Range) content. It also supports DSC (Display Stream Compression) for even higher resolutions and refresh rates.
What is HDMI 2.1?
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is also a digital display interface that was first introduced in 2002. It has gone through several upgrades as well, with the latest version being HDMI 2.1, released in 2017. It supports a maximum resolution of 10K at 120Hz and HDR content. It also supports eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) for better audio quality.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transmitted per second. Both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 have significantly higher bandwidth than their predecessors. DisplayPort 1.4 has a bandwidth of 32.4 Gbps, while HDMI 2.1 has a bandwidth of 48 Gbps. This means that HDMI 2.1 can support higher resolutions and refresh rates than DisplayPort 1.4.
Resolution and Refresh Rate
As mentioned earlier, both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 support high resolutions and refresh rates. DisplayPort 1.4 can support a maximum resolution of 8K at 60Hz, while HDMI 2.1 can support a maximum resolution of 10K at 120Hz. If you're a gamer or content creator who demands the highest resolution and refresh rate, HDMI 2.1 is the better choice.
HDR Support
HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a technology that enhances the color and contrast of images and videos. Both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 support HDR content. However, HDMI 2.1 has better support for dynamic HDR, which adjusts the brightness and contrast of each frame individually. This means that HDR content looks better on HDMI 2.1 displays.
Audio Quality
Both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 support high-quality audio. However, HDMI 2.1 has better support for advanced audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It also supports eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows for higher-quality audio to be transmitted from your TV to your sound system.
Cable Compatibility
Both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 use different cables than their predecessors. DisplayPort 1.4 uses a USB-C connector, while HDMI 2.1 uses an HDMI Type-A connector. This means that you'll need to buy new cables if you're upgrading from an older version of either interface. However, both cables are widely available and affordable.
Compatibility with Devices
Both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 are backward compatible with older versions of their respective interfaces. This means that you can use a DisplayPort 1.4 cable with a device that only supports DisplayPort 1.2, for example. However, you won't be able to take advantage of the newer features and higher bandwidth if you're using an older device.
Price
As with most technology, the price of DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 devices and cables varies depending on the brand and quality. However, in general, HDMI 2.1 devices and cables are slightly more expensive than their DisplayPort 1.4 counterparts. This may be a factor to consider if you're on a tight budget.
Conclusion
So, which one is better: DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI 2.1? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're a gamer or content creator who demands the highest resolution and refresh rate, HDMI 2.1 is the better choice. If you're more concerned with HDR support and audio quality, both interfaces are comparable. Ultimately, both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 are excellent choices for connecting your devices to displays, and you can't go wrong with either one.